Yogesh Tripathi has won the hearts of viewers as Daroga Happu Singh in &TV’s gharelu comedy Happu Ki Ultan Paltan. With his signature potbelly, twisted moustache, and the iconic catchphrase ‘Arey Dada’, Yogesh has made Happu Singh a fan favourite. This fictional police officer is anything but ordinary—he’s more skilled at avoiding work than catching criminals, and he spends more time managing his nine kids and family drama than upholding the law! Off-screen, Yogesh is very different from Happu’s persona, but on-screen, he portrays the character so convincingly that fans often wonder if he’s really like Happu in real life. Yogesh answers all of this and more in the interview below:
Happu Singh, fans love your unique style. What’s your secret to keeping that mustache in shape?
Arey Dada! This moustache probably gets more oil than any police jeep (laughs)! It’s all about a little grooming, a touch of style, and a lot of pride. On a serious note, it’s an artificial moustache that I wear for shoots. But after almost a decade of wearing it, it feels like a part of me now.
What’s more challenging on the show—catching criminals or managing nine kids at home?
If you can manage nine kids, catching criminals doesn’t seem like a big task! (Laughs) But honestly, sometimes those nine little ones are tougher than any gangster! As a Daroga, you need more patience at home than at the police station (laughs).
Is Happu Singh a foodie off-screen as well?
Absolutely! Kanji vada and samosas have a special place in my heart, and in my stomach! I love food just as much as Happu does. If you want to make me happy, just feed me well!
Do any of Happu Singh’s quirks spill over into your real life?
Sometimes, yes! When I’m bargaining with someone, I’ll think, this is a Happu moment, and I can’t resist slipping into his style of speaking. After playing Happu for so long, his quirks have naturally started to seep into my life too!
Who is your toughest critic when it comes to your performance?
My wife and son! They watch the show and give me immediate feedback. Sometimes my kids say, “Papa, that wasn’t funny”, and my wife sometimes tells me to be more energetic on-screen. Even at home, I’m always on duty!
Do you get recognized on the streets as Happu Singh?
Every day! People shout ‘Happu’ and ask me to do act like Daroga Happu or say my famous lines. Some even jokingly ask what nyochavar they can arrange for me! I absolutely love it. It’s such a joy to make people laugh in real life too!
So, has playing Happu Singh made you accept Nyochavar or gifts in real life as well?
Arrey nahi! Happu Singh and I may share a love for food, but Nyochawar is strictly his domain! Though, I’ll admit, whenever I’m on set, I get a lot of bribes in the form of jalebis and samosas from the crew. They know how to keep Happu (and me) happy! So yes, I guess Happu has rubbed off on me a little—when it comes to snacks, at least!
You’ve come a long way, but do you remember your first job in the industry?
I’ll never forget my first salary—Rs. 600 from a theatre play. Back then, acting wasn’t just a passion; it was a necessity. Life was tough, and every rupee counted. Theatre and street plays weren’t just creative outlets; they were crucial sources of income. Those Rs. 600 may not seem like much now, but they were a lifeline, helping me meet my basic needs and fuelling my determination to continue.
Happu is always getting scolded by his wife, Rajesh. How is Yogesh at home?
Let’s just say my real-life wife doesn’t need to scold me as much as Rajesh does on the show! I learned long ago that if I want peace, I have to listen to the *home minister*—my wife! But yes, she does keep me in line just like Rajesh does on screen!
What’s it like working with the fun cast of Happu Ki Ultan Paltan?
It’s fantastic! We’re like one big family. We have such great chemistry, and we’re always laughing. Sometimes, we get so caught up in laughter during a scene that we have to redo it! Our bond and chemistry reflects on-screen.
Lastly, any message for your fans who love Happu Singh?
Arre mere pyaare fans, without you all, this Daroga would be nothing! Keep laughing, keep smiling, and keep loving Happu Singh. We promise to keep bringing you loads of laughter. Thank you for all your love!
